Egypt’s image as a tourist destination is changing rapidly. Its name no longer evokes only images of the pyramids, temples, and historic statues. Instead, the “exceptional” experiences enjoyed by tourists on its soft sandy beaches and in its intensely blue waters, along with their ability to visit dozens of tourist attractions within just a few minutes or a few hours, have changed the equation and reshaped the image of Egypt in the minds of many.

Tourism in Egypt has witnessed an unprecedented recovery recently, with the number of tourists rising from 15.7 million in 2024 to 19 million in 2025, an increase of nearly 21%.

The North Coast, in particular, has experienced significant growth in incoming tourism, with charter flights increasing by around 450% in 2025.

Ras El Hekma, Sidi Abdel Rahman, Marsa Matrouh, and New Alamein on the coast have become among the most important summer destinations. However, Red Sea destinations still have their own loyal visitors, including Sharm El Sheikh, Marsa Alam, Hurghada, and Dahab.

Tourism expert Magdy Al Banoudi told “Annahar” that “the revival of the North Coast has attracted many investors who had been building hotels and tourist resorts in Ain Sokhna and Sharm El Sheikh, and they quickly redirected their investments toward the promising northern coastlines.”

أحد شواطئ مرسى مطروح. (خاص لـ

“The tranquility sought by a European tourist”

The Polish young man Paweł Bajgot told “Annahar”: “I completely agree with the view that considers Egypt one of the most important summer destinations in the Middle East. I truly enjoyed my time there. I visited Marsa Matrouh, and the entire trip was wonderful from beginning to end.”

He adds: “I stayed in an apartment with a direct view of the beach, and it was the perfect choice. The place was quiet and comfortable, exactly the kind of relaxation I needed. Waking up every morning to the view of the sea never lost its charm.”

As for the beach itself, Bajgot says: “I saw one of the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen in my life. For someone European like me, it is truly rare to see water with such a deep blue color. The view seemed almost unreal.”

He continues: “What stayed most vividly in my memory were the caves in Marsa Matrouh, where the waves flowed directly inside them. Standing there and watching this view was a truly unique experience. I also loved the food in the nearby city. It was simple but incredibly delicious.”

However, the Polish visitor has a friendly suggestion that he believes could elevate the experience to a level of “perfection.” He says: “I would like to see greater efforts to encourage people to recycle, so that waste does not accumulate near the coastline. If this issue is addressed, the destination will become very close to perfection.”

A shift in the image of tourism in Egypt

Diana Habika, a young Mexican woman who is currently living in Cairo with her family, told “Annahar”: “Many people know Egypt because of the pyramids, but I believe it has also become one of the best summer destinations in the Middle East.”

She adds: “The country is particularly popular among European and Russian tourists, and I learned that some of them visit Egypt every year to enjoy its beaches and weather. Many of my friends and family members have recently visited Egypt specifically to go diving in the Red Sea.”

Diana says: “I believe Dahab is a very beautiful place to spend the summer, as it still preserves its authentic character. There, you can see goats, Bedouins, and other local features. It all depends on what you enjoy doing and what you want to see.”

One of Marsa Matrouh’s beaches. (Special for “Annahar”)